35mm has been the most popular format for many years, meaning that it presents an unrivalled choice of films.
Colour or Black and White, Negative or Transparency, Super Fast or Ultra Slow - there is a 35mm film to suit all occasions.
To help identify what film your camera takes we've shown a typical 35mm cannister, below:

The name given to the Panasonic edit socket found on some of their camcorders and VCR's. The socket allows control of a camcorder or VCR from an editing controller.

Focusing system used by most compact cameras. Uses an infrared beam to gauge the distance from camera to subject. Can sometimes be fooled by shooting through glass, which is where the rival but less common Passive Autofocus has the advantage.

AD or anomalous dispersion is a type of glass material used in lenses that disperses the light waves more effectively which, in turn, helps to compensate for chromatic aberration and, practically speaking, makes images sharper with better contrast.

The angle of the visible field of view measured from the centre of the objective lens, typically 5° to 8°. Basically - the higher the number, the wider the view visible through the binoculars.

The opening of the lens which lets the light into the camera and exposes the film. Opening the lens by one stop doubles the amount of light reaching the film. Closing down by one stop halves the amount of light reaching the film. See also Depth Of Field

A semi-automatic exposure facility, whereby you set the lens aperture and the camera sets the corresponding shutter speed to ensure correct exposure.

APS was launched in 1996, as the result of collaboration between some of the world's biggest camera and film manufacturers.

Advanced Photo System, to give its full name, offers a range of benefits to photographers, all helping to make picture taking more... advanced.

These benefits fall into four key areas:

• Film Handling. APS films are simply dropped in to the camera, and load automatically - so there's no more fiddling around when changing a film. Sensors detect whether a film has already been used, to prevent double exposure, and also detect the film speed to ensure the correct setting is used.
  Not only that, but once a film has been used and developed, the negatives go back into the original film cartridge to protect them from dust and fingerprints. Some APS cameras even allow you to change film half way through, and put the part-used film back in the camera later on.
• Index Print. The processing of an APS film creates an index print, so you can view an entire film at one glance. It also eliminates the need to handle precious negatives when ordering reprints and enlargements.
• Picture Format. APS cameras allow you to choose one of three formats every time you take a picture, all without changing film. Select the Classic 6"x4" print size, the one inch wider 7"x4" HDTV size, or the widest 10" x 4" Panoramic size. Furthermore if you don't like the format which you originally selected, you can order reprints in any of the other formats. With some cameras you can even specify the number of prints you require for each individual picture, at the time you take it.
• Picture Information. A magnetic strip exists on APS films which allows certain APS cameras to record information along with the image. This feature is referred to as IX (information exchange) and offers various levels of sophistication according to the camera. This can range from the simple recording of date/time, right through to logging details about exposure conditions, which can then be used by processing equipment to deliver the highest quality results.

To help identify which film your camera needs we've shown a typical APS film, below:

ASL or Hybrid Aspherical lens is often found in Sigma and Tamron lens specs and is a special type of aspherical lens that is bonded onto a normal spherical lens. This is less expensive to manufacturer than aspherical lenses and allows a much more compact optical construction without the need for multiple elements - one reason why compact cameras can have such large focal length ranges these days.

This feature allows you to edit your video footage in the order of your choice, including only the portions that you require.

An editing feature on some VCRs that enables the sound track to be re-recorded without affecting the pictures already on the tape. Useful for adding narratives or background music.

A system which enables the camera to take a series of photographs at different exposures. Mainly used with slide film when critical exposure is required.

A built-in camera photosensitive cell measures the light falling on the film plane and sets an appropriate combination of shutter speed and aperture to achieve the correct exposure.

An electronic system which automatically focuses the lens.

Now a standard feature on all new camcorders, it allows the lens to focus on your subject no matter how far away it is, ensuring sharp images. Some camcorders also feature a manual focus setting giving more experienced users extra creative control.

Useful when photographing into the light. Camera gives extra exposure so avoiding subjects being silhouetted or too dark.

New camcorders will usually come with a mains charger as standard but for added convenience car chargers are available as optional extras for most makes and models. These plug into your car's cigarette socket so they are great for long motoring holidays.

This device helps to keep batteries in top condition by running them down so that they can be re-charged or put into storage. This process is especially important for Ni-Cad batteries in order to avoid the ‘Memory Effect’.

The 1/2inch home video format developed by Sony. Home video cameras/recorders are no longer available in this format.

A digital image formed by a grid of pixels, each with a colour or greyscale value.

Bitmap image files, identified by the .BMP suffix, are uncompressed - resulting in large file sizes compared to compressed formats such as JPEG.

Bluetooth is a system whereby two digital devices can communicate with each other without leads, generally up to about 10m, and without necessarily being in line of sight of each other.

Bluetooth uses radio signals to send and receive information between compatible devices, so almost any digital product could use it.

Lack of sharpness due to camera shake, incorrect focusing or subject movement during the exposure.

Possible solutions might involve: using an eyesight correction lens to improve your view of the viewfinder, using a tripod to steady the camera, or simply cleaning your lens!

Also the name of a popular beat combo.

Flash fired at a surface (e.g. wall, ceiling or reflector) before reaching the main subject. Gives even illumination and eliminates harsh shadows.

A series of exposures taken in half or one stop increments above and below the meter’s recommended exposure. Very useful when the lighting conditions are difficult or unusual.

Facility to allow shutter to be held open for as long as the shutter release is depressed.

Second smallest unit of computer memory. Each byte comprises eight bits.

Attachment allowing the shutter to be fired without touching the camera.

Useful when using long exposures on a tripod, helping to avoid jarring the camera and causing camera shake.

VHS-C to VHS: A standard sized VHS cassette housing that can accept a VHS-C cassette for playback on your domestic VCR. Both manually operated and motorised versions are available.

Charge Coupled Device:
An electronic light sensor which captures light to form the image, enabling it to be recorded onto the camera's memory.

Charge Coupled Device:
An optical sensor that turns the light coming through the camcorder lens into an electronic signal that can be recorded on-to tape. Most domestic camcorders have one CCD, while more upmarket models and professional models have 3 CCD’s.

A black and white film that requires processing in colour chemicals (C41). Results may vary from sepia to green, depending on the processor. Some processors have a specific setting for these films allowing them to give true black and white results. At present there are two chromogenic films available, Ilford XP2 and Kodak 400CN.

If you use an autofocus camera, digital camera or camcorder, a standard 'linear' polarising filter may affect your focus and/or exposure settings. A circular polariser avoids this problem.

(Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) image sensors. An alternative to CCD, CMOS sensors are less expensive to manufacture and require less power to operate. This can give a camera increased performance, and also reduce the cost.

Usually means only two outer surfaces are coated.

An ultra-fine chemical deposit on lens surfaces that cuts down reflections reducing light loss and flare.

Put simply this refers to the number of colours that a scanner is capable of recreating when copying an image or negative. Each pixel requires as standard 24bits to create true colour. Most of the basic scanners will have this. Many other scanners will have from between 30- 40bits but still actually only output 24. The reason for this is that the scanner performs a process where by it selects the best possible matching colours from the larger range (or palette) available to it giving a better range of colour in your scan.

Reusable storage card for digital photos. See also SmartMedia cards.

The following detailed description of CompactFlash is taken from the CompactFlash Association website - visit them at www.compactflash.org for more details:

What is CompactFlash, CF Type I and CF Type II?

CompactFlash is a small, removable mass storage device. First introduced in 1994, CompactFlashTM cards weigh a half ounce and are the size of a matchbook. They provide complete PCMCIA-ATA functionality and compatibility.

At 43mm (1.7") x 36mm (1.4") x 3.3mm (0.13"), the CF Type I card's thickness is less than one-half of a current PCMCIA Type II card. It is actually one-fourth the volume of a PCMCIA card. Compared to a 68-pin PCMCIA card, a CF card has 50 pins but still conforms to ATA specs. It can be easily slipped into a passive 68-pin PCMCIA Type II to CF Type I adapter that fully meets PCMCIA electrical and mechanical interface specifications.

At 43mm (1.7") x 36mm (1.4") x 5mm (0.19"), the CF Type II card's thickness is equal to a current PCMCIA Type II card. It is actually less than one-half the volume of a PCMCIA card. Compared to a 68-pin PCMCIA card, a CF card has 50 pins but still conforms to ATA specs. It can be easily slipped into a passive 68-pin PCMCIA Type II to CF Type II adapter that fully meets PCMCIA electrical and mechanical interface specifications.

The only difference between CF Type I and CF Type II cards is the card thickness. CF Type I is 3.3 mm thick and CF Type II cards are 5mm thick. A CF Type I card will operate in a CF Type I or CF Type II slot. A CF Type II card will only fit in a CF Type II slot. The electrical interfaces are identical. CompactFlash is available in both CF Type I and CF Type II cards, though predominantly in CF Type I cards. The Microdrive is a CF Type II card. Most CF I/O cards are CF Type I, but there are some CF Type II I/O cards.

CompactFlash cards are designed with flash technology, a nonvolatile storage solution that does not require a battery to retain data indefinitely.

CompactFlash storage products are solid state, meaning they contain no moving parts, and provide users with much greater protection of their data than conventional magnetic disk drives. They are five to ten times more rugged and reliable than disk drives including those found in PC Card Type III products. CF cards consume only five percent of the power required by small disk drives.

CompactFlash cards support both 3.3V and 5V operation and can be interchanged between 3.3V and 5V systems. This means that any CF card can operate at either voltage. Other small form factor flash cards may be available to operate at 3.3V or 5V, but any single card can operate at only one of the voltages.

Almost twice as thick as normal compactflash and twice the capacity. Up to 512MB cards are available.
Not all products which accept standard CompactFlash cards will also accept Type II, so please check before buying.

Process that reduces the number of bits in an image so it can be stored in less space and transmitted quicker. ‘Lossy’ techniques permanently lose detail while ‘lossless’ methods return all the data. JPEG lossy compression is widely used in digital photo

Moisture can build up in your camera or lens if there is a sudden rise in temperature (e.g. going into a heated building on a cold day). Quickly sealing the equipment in a plastic bag and allowing it to slowly adjust to room temperature will help minimise the risk. Silica Gel sachets (JESSG)can be used to absorb moisture, protecting against rust or mould.

An edit socket found on certain 8mm and Hi8 camcorders. The socket allows an Edit Controller to operate the camcorder’s playback controls and read its tape counter information.

Given this name because the internal prism is the shape of a roof (Dach is German for roof), they are easily identified by their straight design.

Method where a flashgun talks to the camera to set the correct shutter speed and aperture.

The area in front of and behind the point of focus where the image will still appear to be acceptably sharp. See also F Stop.

Usually a camera button which when depressed closes the lens to the selected aperture. Very useful for checking the apparent sharpness of an image.

A new operating system incorporated in the latest digital cameras, allowing the cameras to be ‘programmed’ for special, user definable features.

Camcorders that record high quality digital video and audio onto Hi8 tapes. Existing 8mm and Hi8 recordings can be played back in the Digital 8 camcorder.

The leading edge format for domestic camcorders. Offers excellent picture and sound quality. Mini DV is the smallest video format and has given rise to camcorders the size of personal stereos. Full size DV is the same technology but in a larger tape format.

A digital zoom provides extra magnification (e.g. a 2x zoom makes things appear twice as close).
There is some loss of picture quality, which increases the more you zoom in.

This process can give huge zoom ranges to achieve this the camcorder simply blows up the centre portion of the image so the resolution falls off very quickly as you reach the full extent of the zoom. See also Zoom Lens (Video)

Converts sound and vision into a binary form that can be read by a computer.

Because the left and right eyes are rarely exactly the same, a balancing focus adjustment is provided.

A storage device. This can be the computer’s built-in hard disk or a removable unit.

Transferring a file from a remote computer to your own, usually via a modem. If you’re receiving, you’re downloading; you’re uploading if you’re sending.

Dots per inch. Indicates resolution of a computer monitor, scanner and printer. The higher the dpi the higher the image quality. A typical computer monitor has a figure of around 72dpi, an entry-level printer of 300dpi and a high quality film.

System for reading the film speed from a 35mm camera cassette.

This piece of hardware controls the transport functions of your VCR and camcorder (or 2nd VCR). Most edit controllers feature assemble editing so you can select what is included in your final work and swap around the order of the various scenes as required.

Determines brightness. Calculated by dividing the objective lens diameter in mm by the magnification. An exit pupil of at least 6-8mm is recommended for low light use.

Holds an exposure reading in the meter's memory, allowing you to recompose a scene whilst retaining the exposure for a particular area.

Device that can be built-in the camera or external. Measures the amount of light falling on or being reflected from the object being photographed

Ring(s) that fit between the SLR camera body and the lens, enabling closer focusing and thus magnifying images.

The maximum distance your eye can be back from the eyepiece and still see the whole image. If you wish to use binoculars whilst still wearing glasses, fold back the binocular eyecups and make sure the eye relief is long enough for your high eyepoint).

Method of adjusting the camera to accommodate an individuals' eyesight.

The scale used to express the lens setting (or aperture) i.e. f2.8, f11 etc. The higher the number the less light is allowed through the lens, the lower the number, a higher amount of light is allowed to pass through the lens. Aperture is also related to depth of field.

Most camcorders offer a fade facility that lets you fade out sound and picture - usually to a black or white background. Likewise you can fade-in from a plain background to a new scene.

The number of metres left to right that can be seen at 1000 metres.

When flash is used in daylight. Very useful for backlit subjects and when lighting is very contrasty. Helps to give detail in shadow areas. Very useful also to give a touch of sparkle when conditions are dull or flat.

The arithmetic measurement of a film's sensitivity to light. Usually given in ISO i.e. 400 ISO film is eight times more sensitive to light than 50 ISO. Higher film speed tends to be used for darker situations or when a faster shutter speed is required (e.g 400 ISO is ideal for indoor shots or where light is poor, 100 ISO is ideal for use in bright sunlight).

Extremely useful accessories that have numerous uses. They can be purchased in hundreds of different types and sizes. Filters can be used to eliminate or exaggerate colour and contrast in a photograph/ film. Some filters, often called special effects filters, change the complete appearance of a shot (e.g. adding extra points of light to a candle or producing many images from one scene).

Also known as IEEE1394 or iLink. An audio video output and or input connection which transfers the signal digitally. The transfer of information this way can give almost perfect copies. Only digital equipment will have this socket.

Fixed Focus lenses are found on simpler compact cameras.
They are fixed at one particular setting, but usually ensure that anything between about 1.5 metres and infinity is in focus. They are not always quite as sharp as Autofocus lenses, although this would only be noticed on big enlargements.
For everyday photography they are fine, and unlike some cheap autofocus systems, will not accidentally focus on the wrong part of a scene.

1) Powerful light of great intensity and usually short duration, synchronising with your camera shutter opening.
2) Short for 'Flashgun' - the unit which generates the flash. May be built-in or a separate unit.

A new, easy-to-use viewing and storage file format.

At the heart of every digital camera is a CCD or CMOS chip. This chip collects light from the lens and converts it into an image that the camera can use.

Chips vary in size and the area that collects light is usually smaller than the area that is exposed to light on a 35mm film camera.

The conversion factor is the ratio of CCD or CMOS chip size against 35mm film size. The resulting number is used to multiply the focal length of the lens in use and find out what the effective focal length equivalent would be.

For example:

Conversion factor = 1.25
Lens Focal Length = 28-80mm
Effective Focal Length = 35-100mm.

The traditional 'standard' lens has a focal length of 50mm, this gives a natural sense of perspective and magnification on a 35mm camera.

Wideangle lenses are ideal for fitting as much as possible into a picture, often used for landscapes, group shots, etc.
They also give a large depth of field, so that more of the scene is in focus, from back to front. Very wide angle lenses will usually cause distortion, so that vertical lines near the edge of the picture may appear slightly curved.

Telephoto lenses bring distant objects nearer, making them a popular choice for sports, wildlife, aviation or action photography. They have a relatively shallow depth of field; meaning that not much of the scene will be clear, to either side of the point you focus on.
Because of their high magnification (and greater size and weight) they can be trickier to hand hold, making a high shutter speed or some form of support a wise choice.

Zoom lenses allow a variety of magnifications without having to change lenses. They are the most popular all-rounders and often come included in kits with new cameras. With the latest lens technology it is possible to get zooms in a wide range of sizes, even up to 28-200mm or a huge 35-300mm.

The ability to adjust a lens either automatically or manually to get the sharpest image on the film.

Every lens in the binocular is coated with several layers.

Visual effect of clumps of silver or similar dye images. Usually, the faster the film the larger the clumps, therefore the more grainy the images will look, usually only apparent on big enlargements.

Are used to calculate the correct exposure of a flash unit. The guide number, divided by the subject to flash distance (in metres), equals the aperture required for the correct exposure (but most flashes are automatic).

Unique to the Advanced Photo System. This format is slightly wider than a standard print (7x4 inches).
Remember - when you have your APS film processed at Jessops we only charge for the length of film (15, 25 or 40 exposures), you can take as many HDTV or Panoramic shots as you like!

High Definition (HD), opposed to Standard Definition (SD) gives a higher level of visual quality due to a better resolution. You can only view something in HD if you play it through a 'HD Ready' appliance using a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) cable. The improvement in picture quality is huge and as time moves on we are sure to see a near total conversion to this new format.

High quality analogue video that offers improved contrast and image resolution. There are two high-band systems available; Hi8 and S-VHS.

Electrical contact for fitting an electronic flash gun. Usually found at the top of the camera body.

Essentially an IBM Microdrive is the worlds smallest hard drive, only 5mm thick with the capacity of up to 1Gb. Most of the newer cameras which support Compactflash II will support the microdrive but it varies between different manufacturers and models.

See Firewire

IF is short for Internal Focus and is, as the name implies, a design that allows inner lens elements to focus rather than the front element being used that usually extends to adjust focus. The benefit of this type of lens is that it can be made smaller and lighter and is often easier for the camera’s autofocus motor to drive the lens group. It’s found mostly in zooms and telephotos, but they tend to be more costly than traditional exterior focusing lenses.

Computer program used to acquire, store and manipulate digital images.

A system that helps reduce the effects of camera shake. There are two types available; optical and digital. Image stabilisation can be especially useful for steadying images when using zoom.

A system to effectively smooth out any image shaking that can be seen through a pair of binoculars. The benefits include; easier viewing of distant objects and the ability to use higher magnifications without the usual limitations of standard non-stabilised binoculars.

An override which allows you to set your autofocus camera to the maximum focus distance, ignoring any foreground objects.
An example would be when photographing landscapes through a train window, the camera might mistakenly focus on the glass instead. Using infinity lock will ensure that it focuses on the landscape behind the glass.

Film that photographs 'heat'. New and growing foliage appears white on a black & white print. Infra-red colour film is also available.

Some modern compact cameras come with the option of using an infra red remote control. This is a convenient way to get yourself in the picture.
Unlike a standard self timer, where you just have a few seconds to run around to the front of the camera and prepare yourself for the photo, a remote control allows you to stroll around and fire the camera at will.

For producing high quality digital prints. Look out in particular for 'photo' quality printers which can give excellent results similar to more traditional methods.

A software method of automatically increasing apparent image resolution. Can blur your picture if over used.

The distance between the binocular's exit pupils - which are adjustable to suit the individual.

Designed by Canon to allow you to use higher magnification binoculars whilst cutting down on image movement.

International Standards Organisation. A numerical rating of a films sensitivity to light. The higher the number, the more sensitive the film is to light. For more information see Film Speed

The name given to the JVC edit socket and control devices found on some of their camcorders. The JLIP devices allow control of both a camcorder and VCR often from a PC.

Joint Photographic Experts Group. A commonly used method of image compression.

Most digital cameras now have an LCD screen - which enables you to view what you are filming without having to hold the camera to your eye.
The screen will give an accurate idea of what will appear in the finished picture, but can be difficult to see in strong sunlight.
With a digital camera the LCD screen is the only way to check your pictures when you're out and about - unless you have a computer handy!

Most camcorders now have an LCD screen which enables you to view (in colour) what you are filming without having to hold the camera to your eye. The LCD will give an accurate idea of what will appear in your finished picture, but can be difficult to see in strong sunlight. However it can be tilted to avoid this.

LD or low dispersion glass is another type of material used to reduce chromatic aberrations in lens designs. This results in sharper images, especially over longer distances.

A converter that screws into place in front of your camcorder’s existing lens. There are a variety of different types of converter including; telephoto, wide angle and macro (close-up).

The type of lens fitting varies between different brands of camera. For example it is not possible to put an Olympus lens on a Pentax body, or vice versa. If buying a new lens make sure it is the correct fitting for your camera. If you already own a manual focus camera and trade-up to an autofocus SLR, you will usually need to invest in new lenses, too. Only Nikon and Pentax have kept compatibility (and even then the lenses will remain manual focus and not work in all exposure modes).

Attachment that is placed around the lens to prevent unwanted light from hitting the lens - just as you would shield your eyes.

A fixed focal length (or "non-zoom") lens is often useful for low light conditions. They generally have faster apertures (around f3.5 or even f2.8) when compared to a zoom. They are also more compact, making them especially useful for 'pocket' cameras. On dearer models a fixed focal length can also mean better sharpness, although improvements in zoom technology have narrowed the gap.

As the most recent technology Li-ion batteries can cost a little more than older technology models. However, they offer a better running time than batteries using previous technologies.
This type of battery does not suffer from the "memory effect", and can even be top-up charged.

Many Mini DV camcorders come with smaller, lighter Li-ion batteries as standard, which has helped reduce the weight and size of the cameras themselves.

Works in the same way as on a domestic VCR. The tape runs at half speed, effectively doubling the recording time from one cassette.

Long Zoom - usually around 38-135 on 35mm cameras and 25-100 on APS cameras. This longer lens is suited to people who want to magnify distant subjects. It can make the camera a bit bulkier than the smaller zooms, and may also reduce the amount of light let in by the lens (so faster films may be preferable).
However, with recent advances in lens technology there is now little disadvantage in going for one of these models, particularly if you do a lot of long-distance work.

This encompasses the standard analogue video formats used by entry level camcorders. There are two low-band formats; VHS-C and 8mm.

This is a scale used to measure light intensity. Most camcorders have a very low lux rating - meaning they can still be used in very low light. However, in reality, filming in poor light results in very dim, grainy and dull images so a better option is to use a Video Light, if possible.

Macro always used to refer to close-up photography giving a reproduction ratio of 1:1 or greater (equivalent to a lifesize image on the negative).
Nowadays though it is used for almost any lens with close focusing abilities.

On SLR zoom lenses it is usually applied to lenses which give a reproduction ratio of 1:4 or better (i.e. 1/4 lifesize image on the negative).

True macro lenses are available for most SLRs, usually in 50mm or 90mm focal lengths, generally giving 1:2 or 1:1 reproduction. If you do not do much close-up work then a set of Extension Tubes or a Close-up filter are a cheaper option.

With Compact cameras 'Macro' is used to describe almost any camera capable of focusing closer than approx. 1 metre.

MagicGate is a memory media featuring copyright protection. Authentication ensures that protected content is transferred only between compliant devices as the content will be encrypted to prevent un-authorised playback or copying. Features Include:

• High capacity recordings, compatible across a range of digital media
• Saving, storing and sharing digital content (PC Data and digital images)
• Music media for the Internet generation 32MB, 64MB and 128MB available

MagicGate is a memory media featuring copyright protection. Authentication ensures that protected content is transferred only between compliant devices as the content will be encrypted to prevent un-authorised playback or copying. Features Include:

• High capacity recordings, compatible across a range of digital media
• Saving, storing and sharing digital content (PC Data and digital images)
• Music media for the Internet generation 32MB, 64MB and 128MB available

With a 7x50 binocular, the first number (7) is the magnification. A 7x binocular will magnify the subject seven times the usual size as seen with the naked eye.

The most flexible exposure system of all!
You select both the lens aperture and the camera shutter speed that you want. Most cameras will give a viewfinder indication of whether they agree with your choice - but ultimately you are free to be as creative as you like!

Many Digital SLRs have a high speed continuous shooting mode. The images are often captured faster than the camera can save them on to its memory card. Because of this the images need to be recorded into the cameras buffer memory before they are written to the memory card.

Factors such as file size of the recorded digital images, processing power of the digital SLR and buffer memory size determine how many images can be recorded during the continuous shooting mode.

When the buffer is full the camera takes a rest and records the images to its memory card.

Cameras with a higher maximum number of shots are generaly more expensive than other digital SLRs.

This refers to the actual number of pixels which make up the CCD or CMOS image sensor. However, it can be misleading - since not all of the pixels may be used to make up the final image.

A more realistic figure is the "Effective Resolution", which is indicated via rough bandings in our features tables, and quoted precisely in the detailed descriptions of each product.

Compact porro prism design binoculars having the objective lenses closer together than the eyepieces (as apposed to the larger ZCF type, where the objective lenses are wider apart).

Camcorders which accept Media Cards enable you to save still images and easily transfer them to your computer. The various types of card are not compatible with each other, so if you already use one system with your digital camera it may make sense to choose a camcorder which uses the same type. Please note: you will generally need a card reader (costing around £20-40) to get the images onto your PC.

Medium Zoom - probably the most popular focal range these days, usually around 38-90mm on 35mm cameras and approx. 28-70 on APS cameras.
Provides a reasonable amount of magnification, whilst adding a little to the overall size of the camera.

"MegaPixel" refers to any digital camera CCD or CMOS sensor with over 1 million pixels.
For example the CCD in a 3.34 Megapixel digital camera has 3.34 million individual sensors, each one making up one pixel (short for "Picture Element"). These pixels make up the digital image.

To make it easier to find the camera that's right for you we group cameras together into bands (e.g. 3 to 3.9 Megapixel). For the full low-down on the exact effective resolution (e.g. 3.34 Megapixel), see the individual product description.

If Ni-Cad batteries are not used correctly they can suffer from the ‘Memory Effect’. The problem occurs if batteries are recharged before they are flat, and results in much shorter operating times as well as a shorter useful working life for the battery.

Compact and highly durable storage media for Sony products such as digital cameras, camcorders and walkmans.

Miniature tape format from Sony. The tape itself is 70% smaller than a Mini-DV tape and can deliver a full 60 minutes of MPEG2 movie.

All domestic camcorders have a built in microphone for recording a sound track but many of them will also accept an external microphone input. An external microphone helps eliminate noise from the camcorder’s zoom lens that some internal microphones pick up, this is particularly noticable on digital camcorders as their compact size means that the motors for the tape mechanism and the zoom lens are closer to the microphone(s).

In order to meet the demand of the mobile phone market, a new product was developed - the miniSD memory card. This card offers all of the benefits of SD but in a much smaller size. New capabilities in 2.5G and 3G mobile phones including built-in digital stills cameras, content downloading, and games are dramatically increasing the requirements for data storage and creating the need for removable storage. The miniSD card meets this need by providing the functionality of a standard SD Card in the ultra small form factor required by mobile phones. The miniSD Card is over 60% smaller than an SD card. MiniSD is fully compatible with SD devices by using an optional adapter.

Mini Zoom - usually covers a range of about 38-60mm on 35mm cameras, or 24-48 on APS cameras.
The smaller lens usually results in a smaller camera - making them ideal for carrying anywhere. The only downside is that they are not as suitable for pulling in detail over a long distance.

Automatically advances film and prepares camera to take next picture. Many modern cameras have winders built in, older SLRs often have the option of attaching a separate motordrive.

MPEG is the acronym for Moving Picture Experts Group. This group developed the compression techniques used for DVD, HDTV and DSS satellite systems. MPEG compression also includes a subsystem to compress sound, called MPEG audio Layer-3 or MP3 for short.

MPEG (Motion Picture Expert Group) - Compressed file format for moving images designed for web and e-mail use.

(motion Picture Experts Group)On some cameras you have the ability to record extended bursts of movie usually around 20 seconds of 320 x 240 pixel footage at any given time (though it varies from model to model). The idea for this footage is that it can be e-mailed to people as an attachment (as compression is quite high) or put onto a web site. Generally it is only the higher priced digital cameras that feature this mode but it is becoming a standard feature on all cameras as the internet grows.

One or more lens is coated with several layers.

Storage media for camcorders and MP3 players. Both Panasonic and JVC camcorders utilise MultiMedia cards in there digital camcorders for storing still images.

A creative technique of overlapping more than one exposure on one frame of film.

Image where all normal tones and colours are reversed.

A filter that reduces the amount of light reaching the film without altering the colour or tone. Example to record movement in subject such as waterfalls.

These batteries are the most basic type of rechargeable battery and offer a relatively limited amount of running time. They can last well - up to 1,000 charges but if not drained before recharging they can suffer from the Memory Effect. This can be avoided by using a Battery Discharger

This type of battery offers almost twice the power of a Ni-Cad battery of the same size. This means they are more expensive but much better for use when travelling or filming for extended periods. This type of battery is unlikely to suffer from the Memory Effect which affects Ni-cad batteries.

Usually an editing system where all of the video footage is recorded onto a computer hard drive, edited into a finished production and then recorded to video tape.

National Television Standards Committee - the television standard introduced in the USA in 1953. Now the standard for North America, much of South America, Japan and several other Asian countries. The european standard, however, is PAL.

The lens closest to the subject. Its size is measured in millimetres and is signified on the binocular by the second number in its specification e.g., a 7x50 binocular would have an objective lens size of 50mm.

Just like the viewfinder on a compact camera. Unlike an LCD display, an optical viewfinder does not affect battery life and has fewer problems with glare in bad conditions.
However, it doesn't give such an accurate indication of what will appear in the frame, or of the colour balance the camera is actually seeing.
Ideally your camera should have both options, enabling you to choose the option which suits best on any given occassion.

Phase Alternating Line - the standard colour television system adopted by the UK, Australia, Germany, Scandinavia and others. See also NTSC.

Method of photographing a moving subject by following the action with the camera during exposure, keeping the subject sharp but blurring the background.

Most APS, and some 35mm compact cameras have a Panoramic facility.
Contrary to what many people believe this does not fit any more into the picture, but simply crops the top and bottom of your negative to give a "letterbox" effect.
The pictures are then printed onto special sized paper, to give a "landscape" effect.
35mm users should make sure that they inform the lab that there are Panoramic photos on their film, otherwise thay will just get normal size prints with black bars at top and bottom!

Focusing system used by Autofocus SLR cameras and some Compact cameras. Gauges focus by measuring the contrast of the subject, so can struggle in very low light and/or low contrast situations (although modern cameras cope much better than early AF models).

Personal Computer Memory Card International Association. Set up by 25 companies as a standard for computer memory cards. Used to store images or add more functions to a digital camera or computer.

The standard leads for connecting camcorders to VCRs and TVs. A lot of modern equipment features AV inputs on the front for easy connection. Phono leads can be connected to equipment with Scart sockets by using a Scart to Phono adapter.

A facility which enables you to take a still photo's (which can normally be transferred onto your PC for printing or editing). Generally not as high quality as pictures from a dedicated Digital Still Camera - but quality is improving all the time.

Picture element. A tiny square of digital data that contains colour and tonal range details. The higher the number of pixels the better the image quality.

Effect that occurs when the pixels become large enough to be seen individually.

Software that allows image manipulation software to use scanners and other peripherals.

A Polarising filter is probably the most useful and least intrusive of all filters. It can be used to remove or reduce reflections off non-metallic surfaces (e.g. when shooting through glass). It can also intensify the colour saturation of a blue sky.
The filter can be rotated to vary the strength of the effect, which will be visible in the viewfinder.
N.B. If you have an Autofocus camera you must use a "Circular Polarising" filter in order for the focusing to work properly.

Designed by Ignazio Porro in 1875, the porro prism is the most widely used prism for binoculars today. Identified due to the eyepieces being out of line with the objective lenses.

Positive film that is designed for projection.

The final stage of video production - involving editing, dubbing and/or enhancement.

Print Quality Improvement is the most ‘intelligent’ feature of the Advanced Photo System. It assures excellent photos every time by automatically reading the information about the shot, including magnification, brightness, flash status, etc. Then recording the information onto the metallic strip in the film, this information is used at the photofinishing stage to improve the quality of the prints you recieve.

A fixed focal length lens. eg. 50mm.

Works by automatically linking together the film speed, the shutter speed and aperture setting. To achieve sharp negatives, most programmed shutters are geared towards choosing fast shutter speeds.

A recording method used on some digital camcorders specifically designed for recording still images. A camcorder with a progressive scan mode can produce higher resolution still images than a camcorder without it for transfer to a PC.

Technique of uprating (pushing) and downrating (pulling) the ISO of a film by development compensation.

Calculated by squaring the exit pupil, R.B.I is used as a guide to image brightness. An R.B.I of 25 or more is considered to be useful in low light.

RAW (used on pro SLRs) RAW files have a number of quality advantages. The data is recorded at 12-bits per pixel, which provides a wider range of tones and superior detail in bright highlights and deep shadows. When converting using the camera's driver software, a variety of processing options and parameters provide incredible control over the finished file.

In a digital camera, is measured by multiplying the vertical and horizontal pixels. A CCD with 640x480 pixels per inch has a resolution of just over 300,000 pixels.

Given this name because the internal prism is the shape of a roof (Dach is German for roof), they are easily identified by their straight design.

Red/orange coating to cut down on UV haze over long distances.

Used to digitise photos, artwork and film. A flatbed is best for prints and artwork while a film scanner is advised for working with negatives and slides.

A widely used 21 pin plug used for connecting audio/video equipment.

Small Computer Systems Interface. An industry standard connector for computers and peripherals such as a CD-ROM drive unit and most scanners.

Sequentiale Couleur a Memoire - the standard colour TV system developed and used in France. Also adopted by some other countries.

The SD (Secure Digital) memory card is designed as a secure link between new technologies, for example DV camcorder to a editing suite. The card features a form of copyright control, where only products with SD technology can actually read and transmit to the card. The idea being that the copying of data can be controled by the owner of the information.

If you need to get yourself in the picture - a self timer is the ideal way. It gives a delay (usually 10 seconds) between pressing the shutter release and the actual taking of the picture. Most cameras have this feature built in, some will even take 2 shots after the delay, in case someone blinks the first time.

On a printer with separate ink tanks for each colour it is possible to replace each colour as it runs out rather than the whole cartridge.

This can be a cost effective feature if for example you print a lot of photos of blue skies or a monochrome letterhead on your business documents. Without separate tanks you could be throwing away a 3 colour cartridge that is only 2/3 full - i.e. only one colour has actually run out. On photo printers that use 5 colours the savings could be even higher.

Short Zoom - usually covers a range of about 35-70mm on 35mm cameras, or 30-60mm on APS cameras.
A good compromise for everyday use, the lens will be flexible enough for most situations, but the camera will still be quite compact.

A semi-automatic form of exposure control.
You set the shutter speed, the camera then selects the appropriate lens aperture to ensure correct exposure.

Length of time film is exposed to light. e.g. action shots require fast shutter speed.

Automatic device that allows secondary flashguns to be fired without being connected by cables.

Single Lens Reflex camera. In this camera you see what the lens 'sees' by way of a mirror behind the lens directing the light through the lens into a viewfinder. When taking a shot the mirror pops up out of the way and the shutter opens. Often these cameras give you more control over how you want your picture to look. You have control over the shutter speed, exposure and focusing which means that you can be very creative with your photography.

Thin storage card for digital cameras. An alternative to CompactFlash.

Lightmeter which takes a reading from a very small area of the subject.

Closing the f stop down eg. from f5.6 to f8. This reduces the amount of light reaching the film and also increases the depth of field (sharpness).

Super Zoom - the longest zoom range currently available, up to 200mm.

A lens which effectively increases the size of the image on the film without moving closer to the subject. Usually in excess of 55mm on a 35mm camera.

Small low resolution image to help identify and find high resolution versions.

Tagged Image File Format. A commonly used image file exchange format. Retains a high quality image.

Lets you add titles to your video film. Some cameras include a basic title generator built in. However, if your epic requires 10 minutes of scrolling credits then you will need a separate piece of hardware.

A cross-platform interface for acquiring images from scanners and frame grabbers.

A measurement of performance in low light conditions - Twilight factor is the square root of magnification x the objective diameter (in mm). A higher twilight factor means better viewing efficiency (clarity) and image detail in twilight (low light) conditions.

Universal Serial Bus - a new high speed interface that allows true plug & play connection of compatible devices to PC’s and Mac’s.

USB 2.0 is the next generation peripheral connection for personal computers, and it is super fast. A 350MB file that took around 6 minutes to download on regular USB 1.1 takes only 31 seconds on USB 2.0.

USB 2.0 broadens the range of external peripherals that you can connect to your PC. The new specification inherits the current USB Plug and Play and hot swapping capability, and it's simplicity itself to upgrade to USB 2.0 from 1.1, because all the hardware is the same.

A successful USB 2.0 connection requires a USB 2.0 host controller card, a USB driver, a USB 2.0 cable and a USB 2.0 peripheral such as a digital camera.

Video Cassette Recorder You probably have one in your lounge. Some models boast edit features, making them ideal for editing your work.

Video Home System - the 1/2inch home video format designed and developed by JVC. Now used worldwide by all leading manufacturers. The most popular analogue tape format in the world.

If you are shooting in poor light then a video light is a good idea. Some camcorders have built-in lights but they tend to be fairly low on power. There are a wide range of accessory lights that can attach to camcorder accessory shoes or tripod mounts.

A piece of hardware that lets you mix two or more video sources together. Most also offer the facility to add music and narratives to the soundtrack.

Darkens or lightens the extreme edges of a photo/transparency or negative.

Video Random Access Memory. Graphics card that controls how many colours you see on screen.

Water resistant cameras are ideal not just for use in the rain but also on the beach or in snow.
Cameras sold as "Water resistant" are not intended for use underwater, or for prolonged use in heavy rain. "Waterproof" cameras are safe to use underwater, most will be safe to a depth of approx. 5 metres, though you should always check the specifications before testing this!

A lens which gives a field of view greater than 55mm on a 35mm camera.

Popular 35mm wide angle lenses include 28mm, 24mm and 18mm.
The lower the number the more you can fit in, but extreme wide angles (wider than about 24mm) will produce distorted images.

Usually the highest shutter speed that synchronises with electronic flash.

Jointly developed by Fujifilm and Olympus the 'XD-Picture Card' is a new kind of memory card that offers higher storage capacity in a smaller size than any other format currently available.

All new cameras developed by Fujifilm and Olympus now support the xD-picture card.

The cards measure just 20mm wide, 25mm high and 1.7mm thick, and weighs just two grams - but will be able to store a staggering 8GB of digital files.

The technology - which takes its name form 'eXtreme Digital' - will help manufacturers develop smaller and smaller digital cameras, while at the same time providing users with more and more storage space.

It will also help compatibility between digital cameras, with an adapter being developed to enable cameras designed for CompactFlash media to use the new system.

Key benefits: at a glance:

• Development of smaller digital cameras
• Meets demand for greater memory capacity
• Greater compatibility of digital media between different brands of digital cameras
• Four types of Cards will be available initially: 16MB, 32MB, 64MB, and 128MB. 256MB Cards are planned to be introduced this December '02, with 512MB and 1GB-8GB Cards to follow from the next year.
• Available simultaneously with xD-Picture Cards will be PC Card adapters and USB card readers, allowing easy interfacing with personal computers.
• A CompactFlash adapter is being developed that will allow use of xD-Picture Cards in cameras designed for CompactFlash media.
• Plans to adapt the new media for PDAs, audio players and other IT appliances are also underway.

Usually the name given to porro prism binoculars with the objective lenses further apart than the eyepieces (as apposed to MCF, where the objectives are closer together to make them more compact).

A lens manufactured in a way that its focal length can be altered. e.g. a typical zoom lens for a 35mm camera has a variable focal length of 28mm to 70mm.

Almost all camcorders have a zoom lens, often quoted as two figures:

• An "Optical" zoom is a traditional lens which allows you to zoom in without loss of image quality.
• Many models also feature a Digital Zoom that can extend the magnification even further, but usually with a slight increase in "fuzziness".